Queensland's own alt-rock stalwarts, Cardboard Cutouts, have unleashed their highly anticipated debut album, 'Politics and Footy Tips', and it's a profound journey into the band’s collective soul. More than just a collection of tracks, this record stands as a testament to self-discovery and perseverance, proving that vulnerability can be rock's greatest strength.
From the moment you hit play, the album pulls you in. Lead single ‘My Best Friend’ hits with a moshpit-ready punch, a proper anthem that captures the band’s energetic live presence. Then there's the emotional heft of ‘Steer’, a hard-hitting piece that explores the anxieties of navigating life's big decisions, balanced beautifully by the genre-blending brilliance of ‘Ask Around’. These well-loved singles, already celebrated with airplay across triple j Unearthed and community radio, and features on Spotify’s coveted Fresh Finds playlists, are just a taster of the nine tracks that weave a coherent narrative.
Conceptually, ‘Politics and Footy Tips’ is deeply personal, chronicling the band's five-year odyssey of highs and lows. It kicks off with "Dishy," a raw and honest reflection from frontman Eliot Argus on his hospitality experiences and the dawning realisation of self-worth. Each song acts as a chapter, painting a vivid picture of the band's authentic journey. "Every single song on the album has a rich story behind it, and we aimed to highlight this by giving each song its own distinct sound and style," Cardboard Cutouts share. "By the end of the album there has been a shift to accept self and circumstance, despite everything life throws at you. There are still notes of anxiety, but there is no hopelessness. There is a plan, and an emergence has begun. We will take our time, and we will keep pushing forward." This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the album's cathartic core.
Cardboard Cutouts – comprising Eliot Argus (rhythm guitar and vocals), Campbell Patterson (lead guitar and vocals), Rohan Parker (drums), and Sebastian Czaran (bass guitar and vocals) – have steadily built their reputation. From the sunny, DIY charm of their early single ‘Such Is Life’ to the richer soundscapes of their 2023 'Patchwork EP' and fan-favourite ‘Grandma’s Curtains’, their evolution has been organic and compelling. They’ve gone from playing school halls to sharing stages with Australian music royalty like Phil Jamieson of Grinspoon, Greta Stanley, and Vera Blue, testament to their exhilarating and heartfelt performances.
With 'Politics and Footy Tips' now out in the world, Cardboard Cutouts are bringing their powerful new material to the stage on a headline national tour. Kicking off tonight at Brisbane’s The Brightside, the tour will see them electrifying crowds across Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania, and the ACT. This album is a bold, unpolished, and urgently real statement from one of Australia's most exciting emerging alt-rock voices. Don't miss the chance to witness their story unfold live.
Keep up to date with Cardboard Cutouts today on Facebook and Instagram.
